Community Pathways of Aboriginal Youth Leaders: Report

The study Community Pathways of Aboriginal Youth Leaders focuses upon twelve young Aboriginal men and women who have been identified as leaders and role models by their communities. The research emerged out of a desire to understand better the role and impact of the school system on the lives of Aboriginal children and youth... There was a sense among the research group that one approach that had potential as a starting point to address the topic was to examine the lives of young Aboriginals who had become leaders, referred to by some as “champions”... Thus, it was decided that the purpose of this exploratory research project would be to examine the pathways taken by young Aboriginal role models and leaders, “champions.” It was expected that each life story, or “pathway,” would be unique, but it was also anticipated that there would be some aspects of the stories which could provide some insights into how Aboriginal youth leaders emerge, particularly with respect to family, community and educational settings.